Paraquat and dichlorvos are two common pesticides widely used in agricultural production to control weeds and pests. However, their toxicity has always been a major concern, as improper use can cause serious harm to humans and the environment. So, which is more toxic, paraquat or dichlorvos? Let's find out.
Which is more toxic, paraquat or dichlorvos?
Paraquat is more toxic. While dichlorvos is generally less toxic than paraquat, being a phosphorus-containing poison, paraquat is extremely toxic to humans; just 5-15 ml can be fatal, there is no specific antidote, and the mortality rate exceeds 90%.
What is the difference between paraquat and dichlorvos?
1. Different in nature
Dichlorvos is an organophosphate insecticide and acaricide with contact, stomach poison, and fumigation effects; paraquat is a non-selective herbicide with contact and systemic effects.
2. Different ingredients
Paraquat, with the chemical formula (C12H14N2)2+, is a bipyridine heterocyclic compound and is originally a colorless and odorless liquid. However, to reduce the risk of accidental ingestion, warning colors, odorants, and emetics are usually added during production, giving it a green or blue water-soluble appearance and a pungent odor. Dichlorvos, on the other hand, is an organic compound with the molecular formula C4H7Cl2O4P, and its industrial products are colorless to light brown liquids.
3. Different toxicity
Dichlorvos is moderately toxic, while paraquat is highly toxic or extremely toxic to humans. The mortality rate for humans who ingest dichlorvos is usually less than 40% if treated promptly, while the mortality rate for those who ingest paraquat is over 90%.
4. Different uses
Paraquat can control various annual weeds and has a strong killing effect on perennial weeds. Dichlorvos is mainly used to control chewing and piercing-sucking pests, and is characterized by high efficiency, fast action, short duration of effect, and no residue.
